Plans for a “solar hotel” at the key Satellite Beach intersection of State Road A1A and Desoto Parkway have dimmed, but sustainability is expected to be a key factor in a new idea already in the works.
Time has run out on financing arrangements for a proposed mixed-used hotel/condo project on the city-owned 1.2 acres at 1604 and 1612 SR A1A at Desoto Parkway, the site of the former Peg Leg’s restaurant. A new development agreement for the property, perhaps similar, is expected in about a month.
In coming up with the design for the unique solar hotel project, architect Lawrence Maxwell AIA of Space Coast Architects PA was told first and foremost, the city – and neighbors – did not want a gas station to be built there.
Under his design, the first floor would be underbuilding parking with 17 dedicated spaces for city events and an upscale restaurant or retail. The second floor would be 25 boutique style hotel rooms, with the third floor being residential townhomes with an upper-deck pool.
Special design features included targeting net-zero energy conservation by including methods such as solar power using photovoltaic panels, an electric vehicle charging station, a vegetated roof to aid in heating and cooling, and pervious pavers to help with stormwater concerns.
“It was not just something that wasn’t a gas station. It was something much better to enhance the area and serve as an example for the city efforts toward sustainability,’’ Maxwell said.
CRA Administrator John Stone called the idea a “grand vision” of what is possible that may have turned out too costly. The new idea involving an experienced local developer is expected to be a more conservative approach but will still be designed for sustainability.
“It’s not dead (the previous plans). Because it’s a CRA-owned property, there are items we can stipulate,’’ he said.
Neighbor Fran O’Hara said the original idea was acceptable. She and others who live nearby vow to remain diligent. “We only hope and pray that the city maintains the integrity of the neighborhood,’’ she said.
City Manager Courtney Barker said the city could easily sell the property for a profit but holds to the wishes of its residents.
“They seem to be willing to hold on” for a good fit for the lot, she said.
